WORK has begun on new homes for people with learning disabilities who wish to live independently.

The specialised supported housing development, to be known as The Hollies, is being built off Worsley Road, in Farnworth.

It will include 16 one-bedroom apartments and an eight-bed facility kitted out with the latest technology to help tenants live as independently as possible.

And care will be provided on-site around-the-clock by Bolton Care.

The scheme has been developed by Bolton Council and HBV, a leading developer of specialist supported housing, while construction is being carried out by Mears. It is expected to open in autumn 2018.

Councillor Asif Ibrahim, cabinet member for adult social care at Bolton Council, hailed the project as ‘fantastic’.

He said: “It’s important to make sure that the most vulnerable in our society are cared for in Bolton and further afield. The Hollies is now our third scheme of this type, and it showcases what can be achieved for local vulnerable residents who benefit from the specialist supported living model.

“The Hollies will provide a fantastic approach to dealing with the shortage of quality accommodation, while improving the lives of local adults and making our adult social care budget go further.”

Cllr Ibrahim added that state-of-the-art gear would play a crucial role in improving tenants lives. He added: “The use of assistive technology within the development will also provide residents with improved outcomes and independence, helping them to complete everyday tasks for themselves.

“I am personally excited to see how technology of this kind will have a positive effect on residents.”

Alastair Sheehan, development and planning director of HBV, praised town hall bosses for ‘leading the way’ in supported living.

He said: “The Hollies will provide the opportunity for adults with disabilities to have their own home, but with the added benefit of on-site support staff.

“It is fantastic to see building work start, and the HBV team looks forward to following its progress and meeting the tenants once completed. Our thanks to all the council officers and politicians who contributed to making the commissioning and planning process so trouble free. They have been a driving force in Bolton leading the way with specialist supported living accommodation.”